In September 2024, the Musandam Security Force of the Royal Army of Oman, the Omani Royal Air Force and the Bahraini Royal Special Force conducted a 10-day joint military exercise codenamed Arabian Tiger 6.
Participants included senior Bahraini and Omani officers such as Maj. Gen. Matar bin Salem al-Balushi, Commander of the Royal Army of Oman, and Brig. Gen. Yasser Mohammed al Muawwadah, Commander of the 24th Special Operations Battalion.
Arabian Tiger 6 was conducted in urban and mountainous terrains in Al Dakhiliyah governorate to familiarize the Bahraini Royal Special Force with operations in arduous conditions. The governorate is located on the slopes of Al Hajar Mountains rimmed by desert.
Troops trained in real-world scenarios involving infantry, special operations forces and air forces to simulate a battle that requires interoperability of different branches of the military.
Participating troops carried out several drills on command and control, rapid deployment and redeployment, and executed plans to repel hypothetical attacks and reclaim territories occupied by the enemy.
Arabian Tiger 6 is part of annual joint training developed by the Royal Army of Oman to engage with partner nations’ militaries. The intention is to achieve high combat efficiency, as well as give troops experience in multinational missions.
Bahrain and Oman enjoy strong military relations and share common interests in regional security. Both are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Regional dynamics, such as counterterrorism and protecting maritime shipping lanes, shaped their military cooperation. Sources: Oman News Agency, muscatdaily.com, alroya.om